Symbols And Meanings

Richard has chosen this week's Headbanger Challenge theme of Symbols. And it's certainly one to get the little grey cells working overtime, as Hercule Poirot would say, as he's trying to solve the latest murder mystery.

My little grey cells certainly worked overtime in trying to think up something interesting and unusual for my photo entry. I found the image that I was looking for at an art exhibition that Gail & I went to on Saturday.

The exhibition had the unusual title of The Carnival of Monsters and the image I thought 'bingo' to was one by artist Emma Dex Dexter. It is a sculpture actually Called Vortex2. You look at the artwork through a small perspex window and it symbolises the TARDIS and creates the illusion of infinite space.

I spoke to Emma, and she was happy for me to take a photograph of her graphic artwork. I used one of the art filters on my OM-D to boost the energy of the piece. I showed Emma the photo and she asked if I could send her a copy, which I happily did.

Don't forget to pop over and see the rest of the team's images, and enjoy this musical interlude.

At the invitation of a photographer friend of ours, we joined him on his small boat called 'Sarah', this evening, which is berthed at a marina not too far away from us. We were joined by another friend, and we spent a very pleasent couple of hours taking some night shots like this one and chatting about our favourite hobby over some tea and biscuits.

And Something For The Ladies

The show last night that Gail & I went to mainly featured women. Either as models, make up artists or clothes designers. And all very pleasing on the male eye.

There were a lot of men in the audience. But they had either just come to watch, or were taking photographs, or filming it for publicity purposes.

I did bump into this eccentric looking guy when we first arrived. He happily posed for a snap, and certainly stood out with his handlebar moustache and purple Willy Wonka top hat.

Fashion, Turn To The Left, Fashion, Turn To The Right

We both spent an enjoyable evening tonight shooting burlesque dancers and alternative clothing models at an event called Eclectic.

It took place at the Pitcher & Piano; a converted church, that is now a pub. A little bit ironic really, considering how the many of the worlds religions view alcohol as the work of the Devil.

There were quite a lot of people there, and the front of the runway was clogged up with photographers and video people. So much so that it was difficult to get a good shot. Gail had sneaked herself near back of the stage at the point where the artistes enter. I followed her, and we pretty much had this area to ourselves.

Obviously the lighting wasn't as good here, but we managed by cranking up the ISO etc, or waiting until the models were in a good spot. Like with this one, who is wearing an outfit inspired by nature.

Why, Why, Why Delilah?

Some of you may have heard of Scott Kelby. He is an American photographer and author of many books about photography and Photoshop. He also devised the photowalk five years ago. This is where a number of photographers get together and stroll around taking pictures.

Gail & I did exactly that late yesterday afternoon in Nottingham city centre. Ours was one of many groups across the world doing the same. I think there was around 28 on ours. Some faces I knew well and some were new to me. So it was good to meet some more local camera buffs.

We caught up with the group near the Playhouse, then ambled our way down to the Old Market Square. We then went to the Lace Market area, then down by the canal and ending up at the 'Trip' for a beverage.

Gail, myself and a friend called Lamar had somehow broken off from the main group. Although I think many went off in little groups, as they had spotted something. We stopped outside the well known  delicatessen's called delilah on Middle Pavement and took a few photos of the window displays etc. One of the assistants asked if we were from the press, as she explained that as they were an award winning deli, they often got media types popping in for a shot or two. She also said that this was their last day in that location, as they were moving to bigger premises around the corner.

We explained who were were and she said that she would find out whether it would be OK for us to shoot inside. She came back and said that the manager had said yes. So we trooped in and started taking some shots. Just then another guy, presumably the owner said that we were making his (few) customers uncomfortable and asked us to leave.

I only managed to take two shots inside; with this one being the better of the pair. Gail said that she didn't manage any, and I'm not sure if Lamar took any as he likes to take his time in lining up a shot.

The Ghost Bus

This photography lark does make you get out and about in search of a picture or two. Today has been no exception.Firstly I popped in the former Barton's bus depot in Chilwell to check out this years art exhibition, which goes under the name of the Carnival of Monsters. Then Gail and I went on a walk with a load of photographers, which was part of Scott Kelby's fifth worldwide annual photo walk. Then we went back to Barton's for their open evening and a chance to meet the artists.

I went last year, and they had some good stuff on show. This year has been the same. The highlight for me, and perhaps many others has been the siting of this old Barton's bus from the 1950s. I just love the way the paint has peeled away, the rust and its overall state of decay.

There is an interesting story behind this bus. It was one of 10 that Barton's bought in 1956. This particular one has been standing in a farmers field in Norfolk for the past 20 years. Hence it's unique appearance. The exhibit is also acting as a mini cinema, as a film has surfaced showing one of these buses taking tourists around different cities in Italy during 1959.

An unusual holiday too, as you are flown out to an Italian airport, where you are then picked up by coach, and then spend two weeks trundling to Venice, Florence, Rome etc. All for the grand price of £79, Which in today's money would probably be around £600.

The movie itself is going to be uploaded to Bartons' website, so everyone can enjoy it. Here's a LINK to their website, so you can see the film for yourself.

Studio 54 Reborn

West Bridgford tonight wasn't exactly downtown New York, but it was the nearest thing you could get to take you back to the heady disco beat of the 1970s.

Gail and I went to shoot a 70s night at a local pub. We were invited to by Rupert, the leader and guitarist of the band that were playing. They are called The Disco Prophets. In fact Rupert and I used to play together as children in London, back in the real 1970s. Alas not musically. Just kids stuff.

Strangely enough, he and is wife moved to Nottingham earlier this year for his job. I didn't know until his aunt told me, when we went to visit her in Rye, where she lives earlier this year.

It was a good night too. With plenty of tunes from that era going down nicely with the audience. Many of whom had dressed up for the occasion.

There was a dancing competition too. Gail had paid to enter. Not that she had any intention to do any dancing, unless it was with her OM-D. But she wanted go pay, as the money was going to charity. Oddly she won, as no one else in the audience had entered, even though they were all happily dancing away all night to the tunes. The band gave her a cup as a prize. Not a silver one, but a drinking one, with instructions of how to moonwalk on the side. Someone also won a cup for the best 70s outfit.

Home From Home

Does anyone fancy living in this Tudor building that has some history to it? It's in a prime location too; directly opposite the castle.

Unfortunately there's a couple of drawbacks. Namely its size, there's no car parking or garden and it's next door to a busy college.

It used to house the lace museum, but the city council closed it a few years ago, and now they have put it, and a few other buildings up for sale.

The house has had quite an interesting history. It dates from the mid 1400s and was located in another part of the city. In 1735 it was used by a wine merchants. It has also been a cafe. Then when the building of the Broad Marsh shopping centre began in 1969, it was broken up and transported half a mile away to its present location.

Whoever buys it will need to have some imagination to make the best use of this unusual and unique building.

Sight Unseen

Yes, it's Wednesday again, and that can only mean one thing - the headbanger Challenge.

Tom's choice this week, and he's gone for yellow. Now how to interpret this theme? I mused long and hard. Do I go for something easy, or something a bit more esoteric.                                                                      
Whilst I was venturing up the multi-storey car park yesterday, I saw just the thing. A number of yellow men painted on the ground.  They looked freshly painted too. In fact the whole of the top storey appeared brand new. Maybe as the car park is so big, no vehicle has had to go up on the roof.

For those that may not realise what it symbolises, it is the sign for the area in which pedestrians can walk safely, without having the fear of being knocked down. But as everybody should know, you should always be alert when around moving vehicles.

Don't forget to pop over and see the rest of the entries.

Talking of vehicles, the musical interlude this week comes courtesy of the Banana Splits. A strange children's show from the late 1960s, where odd looking creatures drove around in six wheel buggies.

Today's post is one of the photos that I took whilst on the roof of the car park. You can see the clock tower belonging to the railway station; the British Waterways building, that is now home to a mixture of bars, a comedy club and a gym. Finally at the back is the castle.

Digging For Victory

I went up to the top floor of a new multi-storey car park today for the first time. It's been open about six months now, but this is the first time that I have ventured inside.

It's a tall one, and is located close to the railway station. I enjoy seeing the city from up high, but I don't like being so exposed. I have a fear of heights, and don't like going to the edge, as I think the wall is going to break and I will plunge to my fate.

So I took this photo with my arm outstretched over the side, camera gripped strongly in my hand, and the strap wrapped around my wrist, so I didn't drop it.

The building site was the original car park for the station, but as you can see they've dug a great big hole and going to fill it with concrete, ready for the new tram stop, or transport hub as the planners are calling it.

So I have two building sites to visit now. Work is commencing slowly on the old Odeon. I had a look today and a lot of the rubble has been taken away. Maybe I'll show an updated picture at the weekend.

He's Making A Monkey Out Of Me

Another shot from the Goose Fair which finished on Sunday for another year. It's hard to believe, but the fair has been going almost every year for over 700 years. Always during the first week of October. This year is the 718th.

The first fair began in somewhere around 1284, and was ostensibly a market for selling geese. hence it's name. Later it included cheese and other things. The idea of a fair didn't begin until Victorian times where it stood in the Old Market Square. It was moved to it's present location of the Forest recreation ground during the 1920s.

Locals always look forward to 'gooseh', although I don't really share in the excitement. Far too noisy for my liking. This guy carrying this giant chimp doesn't look too happy either.

Here Is The News

Here's our little Marmalade trying to read a newspaper. I don't think he was doing very well. Not because he can't actually read, but he's trying to read it upside-down.

Posing In The Park

This is Stevi,  a goth model who may look rather formidable, but is actually a bit of a sweetheart. She isn't a full time model. Stevi is actually a student nurse who is specialising in becoming a midwife, and has so far successfully delivered a dozen babies. This only goes to show that looks can be deceptive.

I took this photo while she was posing for another photographer. She is sitting on the steps that lead up to the rear garden of Wollaton Hall.

Catching Up

I've been going through Blogger tonight and deleting all the spam message that I get. It's nearly as bad as my Hotmail account for rubbish messages. I also realised that I've missed publishing a number of posts, for one reason or another.

So here's the first of these posts. This is Emma, one of the many models that I have been shooting this year. Very pretty girl, and love her 'toxic' jumper.

Fairground Attraction

As I explained last night, I primarily went to Goose Fair to seek out some interesting people to photograph, but didn't really find any.  I did however come across this rather attractive young lady.

It looks like she has just won a cuddly duck.  There were lots of cuddly toys on offer for testing one's skills. Hoop-la, shooting, lucky cards etc. I wonder how she won hers?

She was right to wear a scarf, as it was quite cold last night. Still it is the time of year now for cold nights. It's raining while I am writing this. I quite enjoy listening to the sound of the raindrops falling on the windows. Just glad not to be out in it though.

Special Constable

Although Stewart gave us the theme a couple of weeks ago, as he was off on yet another holiday, I still pondered over how to interpret the word. Early ideas included a couple of dice, showing the two sixes, or two boxes of eggs. But dismissed them as amateurish. So I was on the lookout for something more unusual.

Then inspiration hit me last Friday when I went into a local cafe to buy a cake, as it was the McMillan Tea Party day, to raise funds for their nursing service. After buying my rocky road, I turned and saw this giant clock on the wall. It hit me. Not literally of course, but the twelve hours on the dial did. Perfect.

Do have a look at how the others have viewed the theme, and enjoy this little musical interlude.

Gail received a call this afternoon from a photography friend of ours saying that he was off to Goose Fair tonight, and wondered if we fancy tagging along.  Of course, any chance of taking some photos is a good idea to me.

So we met up him and spent a couple of hours walking around and looking for something to shoot. He agreed with me that it was a bit uninspiring. There's only so many flashing lights and loud music one can take. Gail seemed to be having more fun, taking some shots on her Olympus, and using the special art filters

I was on the lookout for interesting looking people, but didn't really find any until we came across this policeman with an obvious sense of humour. Not sure if bunny ears are standard issue these days amongst our boys in blue, but he did look amusing. Gail said hello and asked if she could take his picture. He was happy to pose for her, and I took one or two as well. He asked if could get a copy. Of course we said yes and I gave him my business card. So hopefully he'll have a look at this blog and recommend it to his friends and colleagues.

Castle View

I was in the city centre a bit longer tonight as I was doing some paid market research. Beer tasting actually. Nice work when I can get it!

So it was beginning to get dark when I left the bar where the market research was taking place. It had been raining too, so the sky was cloudy and the ground wet.

I thought the castle gatehouse looked quite inviting to take a photo of. Especially with the light glowing from the little window. Instead of the standard touristy shot, I went for a very low artistic view, with the camera resting on the ground.

Living History

I went up to Eastwood yesterday afternoon to see the Medieval encampment that had been set up in the farmland surrounding Beauvale Priory.

The weather wasn't particularly brilliant. Windy, cold and spitting of rain. But that didn't put off the visitors walking around and looking at the tents, the people dressed up as knights etc and the demonstrations that the people were doing.

The battle between the knights was quite exciting to watch, and the commentary was amusing. The insults and banter between the men was funny and they managed to keep their language to within the period.

I saw a friend of mine who has been in some of the community plays with me. She was playing one of the monks who lived at the priory and giving tours of the ruins. Very much like I did a few months ago.

Running For Dear Life

The Robin Hood Half Marathon took place this morning across some streets in Nottingham. I went to catch the action just before the runners went round Highfields and back to Trent Bridge.

The more taxing 26 mile marathon had been cancelled by the organisers earlier in the year due to the large amount of roadworks that are taking place at the moment and the worries over runners' safety.

Over 8000 runners of all abilities took part, including those in wheelchairs. Quite a few had dressed up for the occasion, which is what I was essentially looking out for. So I was pleased to spot these two Supergirls running together.

Obviously the best of friends. I like the way that they are almost mirroring each other with the way that their long hair is wafting about in the same direction, their hands are almost in the same position and they are both in the same running position.

I don't know if they are running to raise money for a charity. But many did, and so I hope they all raised a good deal for their particular cause.

Fare's Fair

I went the the very first Great Nottinghamshire Show this afternoon, which is taking place in a local sports field over the weekend.

There were quite a number of stalls there. Mainly food, which was good, as I got to taste some curry and a small bowl of Paella.  I also bought some old English muffins from a local baker. They look a lot different than the round discs that I normally buy. These still round, but look like cakes. I'm looking forward to trying one with some blackberry jam.

There were a few other stalls, including one promoting the Lakeside Arts Centre. I got chatting to the two who were running the stall. I took a photo of them and Tweeted it, as I follow the centre, and many other local organisations on Twitter. It made them happy, as it proved to their boss that they were working.

I also bumped into someone that I used to work with. He Left a couple of years ago, as he wanted to work for himself. So he set himself up with a mobile coffee van. I saw him a few months ago serving some staff from the local BBC studio. He wasn't in a very good mood though, as he hadn't been able to serve anyone, as there wasn't any power available for his van.

For some reason I didn't find find any inspiring photos to take, until I came across this promotional Smart Car for a local taxi service. I love the telephone handset on the roof. If a giant came along, they could pick the car up by its 'handle'.

Cock A Hoop

Here's a shot from some of the old buildings along High Pavement. A wide range of classical and neo-classical buildings dominate the area; together with a number of Victorian warehouses, used for the lace trade. Now they have either been turned into offices or penthouse flats.

Badgering People

There was a demonstration outside one of the many Tesco stores in the city centre at lunchtime today.

The demonstration concerned the scheduled badger cull that the Government has recently announced to ward off a possible TB epidemic amongst cattle. Although there is no scientific proof that this is the best way of controlling the disease.

There is a suggestion that it is better to actually cure the badgers, rather than killing them. The protestors were also getting passers by to sign a petition to stop the cull. I of course happily signed it, as I am an animal lover and do not believe it is the way to go either.

The Man In Grey

Today is our Headbanger Challenge, and only four of us again this week, as Stewart is still away at the seaside. Unfortunately he and Julie are getting a bit battered and wet at the moment in the stormy weather that we are presently experiencing across the country.

I've chosen the theme this week, and have picked 'confectionery'.  This can mean, chocolate; sweets; cakes, or anything in between. I have gone for a traditional looking sweetshop which we came across in Leeds last weekend.

It was located in a small arcade, that contained all sort of good quality gift and clothing shops. We were going to have a snack at the cafe next door, but they had run out of bread!

Don't forget to have a look at the other sites, and enjoy this great song from years gone by.


I took our Olympus OMD for a spin today for a change. I'm waiting for the battery grip that we've ordered to arrive, as although it is a great camera, I am finding it a little small for my hands. Especially as I've been used to the big Nikons.

I think I've mentioned before that I do love the different art filters that the camera can produce simultaneously, after you're pressed the shutter; although it does take a little while for them to be processed onto the SD card.

Although it rained again this morning, the sun came out a bit, while I was on my way home. So I decided to have a ride through Highfields.  I'm glad I did, as I managed to capture this little fellow while he was hunting for food.

He seemed quite used to humans, and came quite close whilst I crouched down, camera in hand and watched him hopping about. So I managed to snap him while he stood there posing for me.

The Cars That Ate Leeds

Back to Leeds today and two of James Martin's cars. The first is is a Ferrari 275 GTB,  from the late 1960s, which apparently used to belong to John Lennon. Imagine..

While below is a somewhat modified and highly decorated Fiat 500 from around 1972.

Bringing The House Down (2)

What a horrible day it's been today. It's rained for most of the time. I got wet feet cycling in to work. Not so much from the rain, but the spray from the lorries and the big puddle at the side of the road, because the council haven't got around to cleaning the drains out yet and they are covered with leaves and rubbish.

Although it was wet, I still needed to go out for some fresh air & exercise. I didn't go very far though. There is a multi-storey car park near where I work, and so I thought I would go up to the top level and take an aerial photo of what the old cinema looks like.

As you can see, they've really got to grips with knocking it down. I think by the end of the week, the site will just be a pile of broken bricks and scrap metal. Which then will be sorted and the land cleared ready for the construction of the new building to start.

So I can see that going up the car park is going to be a daily ritual for the next week or so. I will be taking shots from ground level too, as the demolition gang get going.

Grub's Up!

Gail and I have spent in interesting, but slightly disappointing weekend in Leeds. Our original reason for going was to attend a one day photography course with a couple of friends. But the photographer pulled out at the last minute & we couldn't get a refund on our hotel room, so we decided to go anyway. We left late on Saturday, so didn't really see that much of the city. But we did a fair bit today. Firstly we went to the Royal Armouries; a museum dedicated to weapons, fighting and war since man first got angry with each other. We watched a demonstration on how a knight puts on his armour with the help of his squire. It was quite informative and we were told that armour design changed through the years. We had a good look round at all the exhibits. I'm not that interested in war and weaponry, so was a little fed up after a while. But my mood brightened when we got outside, as there was a small exhibition of classic cars, including two from the 1920s. We'd previously passed these on the road from the hotel and Gail managed to snap them while we were stuck at some traffic lights. There were a number of Minis, some sports cars and an original Fiat 500, which belonged to TV chef James Martin on display. James himself is a big car buff and has taken part in various rallies. They were parked outside his restaurant called 'The Leeds Kitchen'. Incidentally we were told that he was inside serving and entertaining the customers. So we had to have a gawp through the windows. And sure enough there he was. So I took some shots 'pap' style. Although he did pose for photos later. We then went for a stroll around the city centre, which has some very decorative Victorian buildings. I didn't take that many photos, as it had started to rain and thought it best to start the journey back home.

Bringing The House Down

Well work has now started on demolishing the old Odeon cinema. It has been derelict and unloved for around 12 years now. I can't even remember the last film that played there. Looking at some old photos on line, it may have been 102 Dalmatians. Anyway the builders are in, and it is very slowly disappearing. They took the roof off this week, So I thought I would do a mini project of recording its final death, before the site is reborn as student flats.

Steaming Ahead

Gail has got herself a new camera. Something a little smaller and neater for her to carry around on a daily basis. It is an Olympus OMD. The one that Damian McGillycuddy let us have a go with the other week. So as a change to my hefty Nikon, I took the little DSLR for a stroll around the city centre. As it is a micro 4/3rds camera, my Panasonic lenses fitted it. So I had a go with the 20mm pancake lens. Although it came with an small zoom lens. The small buttons took some getting used to, as I'm more familiar with the chunkier Nikon ones. The weather wasn't very good, so I didn't really see anything exciting to snap. Except this scene of some council workers steam cleaning the pavement. Removing chewing gum I think. The one thing that I do like about the OMD, is it's ability to take a photo and record it using several different art filters at the same time. There are at least twelve. This is one of my favourite filters, as it gives the picture a slight HDR appearance, without it looking too unrealistic.

Sharp Shooter

This entry was originally meant to have been posted on September the second, but Blogger is acting oddly and so has appeared today instead. After our excitement yesterday in Chester city centre we spent Sunday at well known photographer Damian McGillycuddy's studio. It was a great experience to be talking to a professional photographer, as he took us through the steps in creating an exciting and stylish photo. Setting the scene, sorting out the lighting and posing the model. He uses an Olympus OMD camera, and a rep from the company had come along with some, so that we could have a go with one. It is quite a small camera. A micro four thirds one, that has been based around their film cameras of the 1970s. It took some getting used to, as the layout is a lot different to the Nikons that I am now used to, or even my two Panasonics. The camera has a neat trick of producing a photograph in twelve different styles simultaneously using the built in art filter programme. I took a shot of Lois here, using one of the filters. She was lit by an off camera flash which faced a wall of glass bricks, which has added to the dreamy shot

Money Makes The World Go Round

I used this photo for the Headbanger Challenge. The theme was 'change'. It got me the gold too.

Mirror, Mirror Who Is The Fairest Of All?

Wednesday again, and unfortunately we are two down this week as Gail has left to do other things and Stewart is on yet another holiday.

Kathy has thought up this week's theme of 'change'. A subject that can mean an awful lot to some people; a change of career, house move, getting married (or divorced) or even leaving to live in another country. Big stuff. But then don't forget all though little things. A new pair of shoes, painting your front door a different colour, or even trying a new way of cooking a basic ingredient.

Well I decided not to go with any of those, but to take a literal interpretation and show a pile of coins. Or 'Shrapnel' as it's sometimes nicknamed.

Do have a look at the rest of the group's pictures and enjoy this top tune from the 1970s.

Todays blog photo is another shot from yesterdays wedding tutorial. This one is a bit of an odd, but creative shot of the bride being reflected in the mirror with the groom looking on and wondering what his wife is going to be like when they've settled down together. Is there going to be two sides to her personality?  The loving and happy girl that he's fallen in love with. Or is there a darker side to her that may reveal itself at any moment?

Wedded Bliss

It was an early start for Gail and I this morning, as we were off to shoot a wedding. Not just any old wedding, but one where there would be another eight photographers doing the same thing.

But it wasn't a society or show business wedding. No it was actually a day's tutorial with practical experience on how to shoot weddings. As although we have shot two weddings so far, we don't feel that we have got the hang of doing them yet.

It was a good day on the whole, and the two models that were hired to be the 'bride and groom' worked tirelessly through the day and kept their smiles going, when even real newly weds may want to stop and go for a beer instead. Michael Lau the tutor was very good. We have been to a few of his studio based classes and always found them useful and interesting.

Here's one of the many shots of Hannah and Neil that I took through the day. The weather was kind to us too. Although the constant changing light played havoc with our settings.

Sunset

After so much action over the past few days, things have quietened down a little bit and have nothing new to show you. So I've dug out this sunset over Nottinghamshire from a few weeks back, when we were driving home from our weekend away to Chester. Things are going to liven up a bit at the weekend, as we are off to Leeds for a model shoot. It's going to be a mixture of studio and location shooting. A couple of friends of ours are going too. So it should be a interesting and useful day, with many great pictures to add to my portfolio.

Lark In The Park

Today, Gail and I went on a planned photoshoot to Elvaston Castle & Country Park near Derby with some other 'togs' and models that we know through Facebook. Unfortunately we didn't get that far, as one of the rangers decided that he didn't want us in "his" park, and so we left and headed for Wollaton Park instead. We hoped their staff would be more accommodating.

We had about six models to play with and many of them decided to wear wedding dresses. Although it was a little breezy, it was fairly warm and sunny. Almost ideal shooting conditions, except for the constantly changing light. So I had to keep altering the dials on my camera, to stop the pictures being under or over exposed. All part of the fun that is photography.

Here's one of the models; Gemma, posing by the hall itself. Maybe in the same spot that Batman stood last year whilst they were filming the latest instalment of the movie franchise.

Where There's A Will

They say that life is a cabaret old chum, and it certainly was at the Theatre Royal tonight, when we went to see the musical of the same name. It starred singer Will Young, actress Michelle Ryan and legendary actress Sian Phillips. It is on a short tour of the country, before transferring to the West End of London.


I've only seen the film version which starred Liza Minnelli a couple of times, so I had a rough idea of the plot. The action is set in Berlin in 1931 and revolves around night club singer and dancer Sally Bowles, her friends, lovers and the rise of the Nazi party.

The ending was very dark, shocking and done in complete silence. As a Nazi pushes over the giant letters that spelt KABAERT over, you see the dancers from the club all lined up and naked, with their backs to the audience. You then see sprinkles of light pouring from the ceiling and you slowly realise that they are in a gas chamber and about to die as part of the 'Final Solution'.

It was an excellent production and well staged. I was even impressed with Will Young's singing and dancing abilities; considering that he only came from the Pop Idol TV series a few years ago, rather than the usual route of progressing through theatre or drama school.


We decided to wait backstage and see if we could say hello to the stars. We met Michelle Ryan, and she signed our programme, before driving off in her red Mini. Will was a bit more challenging. He actually managed to leave the theatre without anyone noticing, as he left through another door and into his black Mercedes. There was quite a crowd waiting for him too, so it was somewhat disappointing that he decided to play the drama queen and ignore everyone.

Friday Flutter

Well it's a bit of a restful photo today, after so much action over the last week or so.

I saw this butterfly hopping from one flower to another, so I managed to get this shot while it had landed and stayed still enough to press the shutter button.

Au Réservoir

On the way back from Rockingham Castle, we stopped off a Rutland Water, which is near Oakham in Leicestershire.

Rutland Water is a reservoir that supplies water for the region. It also doubles up as a nature reserve and water sports centre. Fishing and picnics also take place.

We had not been before, so it was a pleasant to have a walk around and take a stroll to the waters edge. There were loads of people there; mainly families having a bit of quality time together.

I took some photos of the birds flying around, which I thought about using for my Headbanger photo.

The village of Normanton was lost when the lake was constructed. The building you can see is St Matthew's Church and is all that remains. Sometimes though when the water is low, you can see the submerged buildings; lost in time.

Hitting The Beat

It's another Headbanger Challenge today, and it's Gail's turn this week.

It's also going to be her last one, as she has just started a college course, and so her time will be taken up with that.

Although she's my wife and I of course see her every day, I will miss her blogging and being part of the headbangers.

So what has she chosen for us all this week? Well, it's 'feathers'.

I took my entry at Rockingham Castle on Sunday. We were looking inside the house and I just spotted the quill pen on the desk in the upstairs music room. Although you are not supposed to be allowed to take photos inside the house, I just could't resist taking a sly picture or two.

I like the way in which the feather is highlighted against the darkness of the room. Just lit by the window.

Do pop over and see how the rest of the team have done with the theme, and do enjoy this pretty little song and arty video.

I took today's blog photo on Sunday, but due to the amount of events that I covered over the last couple of days, so I thought I would put it on today.

Besides going to Rockingham Castle on Sunday, we went to the city centre to see a band and dancers called Mandala. Unfortunately we missed most of the concert, but did catch top Tabla musician Talvin Singh in action.

Here he is thumping away on his drums, whilst the Council House has some images projected on it.

Striking The Right Chord

Gail has now started a college course on a Tuesday night. So instead of moping at home alone, I decided to go to a local bistro, as there was a musician playing. Although I do have loads of photos that need processing from all the events and places that I have covered over the last few days. But the draw of music and food was too much to resist.

The musician's name is Dan Johnson, and he sung a lot of blues tunes. So to help get into the mood, I treated myself to a Cajun chicken burger and ate while I listened and took photographs.

The bistro was busy, but not heaving, so I was able to walk and crouch around uninterrupted. I even asked if I could take some from behind the bar. Which I was allowed to do.

Pedal Pushers

The UK's version of the 'Tour de France', the Tour of England is presently underway across the land, and Nottingham was chosen to start the second leg of the journey.

So I and many hundreds of others stood up near the castle at around 10 o'clock this morning to wave them off.

By the time I had reached the city centre, it was 9.30, and the place was heaving already with cyclists and cycling fans. It was good though that you could just walk around chatting to the riders and getting autographs.

I just took photographs, including this one of Olympic champion and winner of this year's Tour de France Bradley Wiggins. Alas not on his bike, but going up on stage to sign himself in for the day's race up to Manchester.

Damsels In Distress

As it was another lovely sunny day, Gail and I went to visit Rockingham Castle in Leicestershire.

The castle was built over 900 years ago & decendants of the original family still live there.

The insides were full of wonderful things to look at; furniture; paintings; works of art. The kitchen was amazing and full of cooking utensils and realistic looking foods. The staff were very knowledgeable and happy to answer questions.

The castle grounds are exceptional and are well laid out and full of interest. I especially like this hedge of different shaped and sized hedges that run the length of one of the gardens.

Some of you may have heard of, or seen a BBC drama series from the early 1980s called 'By the Sword Divided'. It was about a family caught up in the middle of the English Civil War. Well the castle was used extensively in the show as a backdrop to the action. So if you do fancy a day trip out somewhere, and want to pretend to be a Cavalier or Roundhead, I can personally recommend a visit, as I don't think you'd be disappointed.

First Of The Summer Wine

Gail & I shot a friends' marriage blessing in Long Eaton today & then went to Trent Lock Marina to take some photos of the happy couple in a relaxed environment.

It was a blessing, as they had got married in Holland, a few weeks ago. Alas we didn't get to cover that, as I've never been to Holland before, and it would have been a good experience.

It's been a lovely sunny day today. Almost too sunny! And hot too. The sort of weather which we should have got during July and August.

We have never visited Trent Lock before, so it was a bit of an adventure. It was a great place to walk around. Maybe bigger than Beeston Marina. Certainly a lot busier.

Whilst we were having a look around for suitable places to stop for photographs, I saw these three young girls relaxing and enjoying the warm weather; so I just couldn't resist taking a shot.

Where Eagles Dare

St Peter's Church had an open day today as part of the country's heritage weekend. This is where people can visit buildings that aren't usually open to the public, or have thrown their doors open wider than normally.

I have been in before, a few years ago, and then I only had my little Canon point & shoot. This time I had my Nikon, and so had a good look round for something that caught my eye.

This lectern was an obvious choice. The golden eagle is a work of art and is probably very heavy.

I took a fair few photos of different things, including carvings and stained glass windows. Some of which may appear on here sooner or later.

It's A Free Ride

One of our local bus companies unveiled a new bus today. One of several that will be running around the city centre every day, taking passengers to either the Victoria or Broad Marsh shopping centres.

What makes these buses special is the fact that they run on electricity. A first for the city. And what makes it extra special? The fact that you can ride on it for free. Which in this day and age is a rarity.

Crime Does Pay

Wednesday night is Headbanger Challenge night in Blogland, and Richard, our newest recruit has come up with this weeks' theme. He has picked 'through the window'.

Now this sentence takes me back to my childhood when I watched Play School at about 4pm every weekday. And everyday they used to either go through the round, square or arched window, and we'd see a film of something being made, a different country or some such thing.

So I'm taking you through the oblong window to Chester today and this pirate who was standing guard inside a shop; which I just can't remember what it's name was, or what it was selling. Still it makes for something different.

Don't forget to pop over to the other blogs to see how they have interpreted the theme, and enjoy this nostalgic song from the 1930s.


The famous American crime writer Lee Child was in town today, doing a book signing at Waterstones of his latest novel "A Wanted Man'. And he certainly was wanted, as there was a queue a mile long that stretched up the side of the building.
His wrist must really have ached after autographing so many editions. In fact one guy came along with a bag full of his previous novels to sign!

I have read one of his novels so far called 61 Hours. It was a good read too. Quite suspenseful and certainly a page turner. I will probably get this one when it appears in my local library, which I think is about his 12th so far.

I also had a bit of a surprise, as this young lady came up to me and asked if I was "Gailsman". I said I was, and she introduced herself as Eva, and she helped to write the Nottingham Confidential website; of which you'll find a link on my favourite blogs. She said that she enjoyed looking at my blog and thought my photos were great. I said that I found NC very useful for finding out about some of the events that were taking place in the city. So if you are reading this Eva, nice to have met you today and hope to bump into you at the next event.

A Touch Of Yesterday

Whilst walking along one of the main routes down towards the river in Chester, I spotted this old Morris Minor. It was in very good condition and is obviously looked after well.

What made it for me was the fact that the owner had parked outside a shop that looked like it belonged in the past as well.

So the three of us all stopped and took some shots of the scene.

I've had a little twiddle with one of mine, and tried to give it that authentic 1960s look, using Picasa.

Colour Rush

Due to our trip away to Chester at the weekend, I'm a bit behind in blogging. But I'm still here, and plan to fill in the gaps during the next couple of days. So do pop back and read all about our adventures in Lancashire.

As the city is quite a tourist attraction for one thing or another, we sat in a good vantage point and were able to watch lots of people going by. Of course I snapped all the interesting people I could see, including this guy, as I was drawn to his brightly coloured T shirt.

He knew I was taking his photo, as he gave a little smirk while I pressed the trigger. He walked on by, but then he stopped and came up to us. We struck up a conversation. He wondered if we lived there, and if we knew of any pub jobs going. We said that we were visitors and we loved his T shirt.

He said that he came from Austria, but had bought the top in Spain and was over here as a sort of missionary. He found it difficult to explain fully how he had ended up there, but knew Nottingham, and had passed through on his way up north.

We wished him luck in his job search. I said that I had seen an advert in a window of an eatery close by, who were looking for a chef. He said that he had done some cooking and would go and see if he could find it.

The Look Of Love

We are in Chester for the weekend with a photography friend of ours called Jurgen. We are here to visit the studio of professional photographer Damian McGillycuddy. He is opening his studio tomorrow and demonstrating how he takes his amazing photos of models etc.

It has been difficult in trying to find somewhere to stay, as the visit clashes with Ladies' Day at the races. When we got into town, we saw all these people coming from the racecourse in their finery. A photographer's dream. Shooting on the street, and people happy being photographed.

I spotted this rather pretty young lady handing out flyers for a local bar. I thought she looked lovely, and with such a wonderful smile too.